Psychotherapy and Mental Health Counseling in New York | Asian & Asian American Therapists in New York

Yi Zhu, LCSW

Senior Psychotherapist and Supervisor

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Wellfleet, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Carelon Behavioral Health, for residents of New York.

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Hi, I'm Yi, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in helping adolescents and adults overcome a range of challenges. My therapeutic focus includes but not limits to addressing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family dynamics, and personal growth.

I firmly believe that each individual's journey is unique, and my client-centered approach is tailored to help you discover your own insights and strengths. One aspect that sets my practice apart is my deep commitment to multicultural perspectives. Coming from an new immigrant background, I am sensitive to the importance of culture, identity, and belonging in the therapy process.

You can trust that I will honor your cultural values and heritage while also helping you navigate any cultural conflicts or adjustments that may arise. It's important to know that therapy is not just about addressing problems; it's also a space for reflection, self-discovery and personal growth. We will work together to uncover your strengths and capabilities, helping you to develop the tools you need to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Top Specialties

Relationship Issues

Depression

Anxiety

Racial Identity

School Issues

Self Esteem

Self-Harming

Stress

Trauma and PTSD

Women's Issues

Expertise

Anger Management

Child

Codependency

Domestic Abuse

Family Conflict

Grief

Infertility

Life Transitions

Oppositional Defiance (ODD)

Parenting

I Work With

Individuals

Family

Education

Columbia University

Licensure

LCSW State of New York / 096476

About Yi

  • My path to becoming a therapist is fueled by a profound curiosity about human beings and a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit. I've always been fascinated by the rich tapestry of human emotions, and this curiosity, combined with a strong desire to help, led me to my calling as a therapist.

    My career in the mental health field began in community-based hospitals. This was where I witnessed firsthand the unfiltered experiences of individuals facing a wide range of emotional and psychological challenges. These moments were not just about theories or concepts; they were about real people with real struggles. In those hospital settings, I learned about the complexities of mental health, the importance of empathy, and the significance of personalized care. I am looking forward to applying this knowledge and experience to make a meaningful impact on the lives of my clients.

  • When working with me, it's important to know that our therapeutic journey is deeply personalized and collaborative. Our initial sessions focus on understanding your reasons for seeking therapy, your expectations, your specific goals and building therapeutic relationships. I encourage active participation and a willingness to engage in self-exploration and growth.

    Progress in therapy is not solely about practical problem-solving; it often involves facing deep-seated issues and bearing with uncomfortable emotions. In our therapeutic journey, I'll be there to deeply empathize and provide unwavering support, but you can also expect moments when I challenge you and engage in difficult conversations. I'll be your ally and guide as we navigate these complexities together.

    While I typically don't assign homework, I may occasionally recommend books or movies that can provide additional insight or provoke meaningful reflection. This can be a valuable supplement to our therapeutic discussions, offering new perspectives and opportunities for self-discovery.

  • Growing up in a small city in China, I learned the value of close-knit communities and the importance of human connections. This background instilled in me a deep appreciation for interpersonal relationships and a sense of belonging that I carry into my therapy sessions.

    While growing up in a small city, my father has always encouraged me to approach the world with curiosity. Starting from my college years, I began backpacking and exploring the world, which exposed me to different cultures, diverse values, and unique ways of life. During these travels, I had moments of being deeply moved by the beauty of the world, often brought to tears. I also faced challenging situations, such as being the victim of a robbery. These experiences have further enriched my understanding of the human experience and cultural diversity. They've reinforced the importance of staying open to the wonders of the world and recognizing the unique perspectives and challenges that individuals from various backgrounds bring into therapy.

    I came to new York city in 2017. Being an immigrant has provided me with firsthand insight into the struggles, anxieties, and cultural adjustments that individuals may face when moving to a new country. These experiences have heightened my awareness of the unique stressors that immigrants and those in cross-cultural contexts encounter. This empathy informs my approach in therapy, allowing me to better understand and support individuals dealing with such challenges.

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If this is an emergency, please call 911 or reach out to a crisis counselor at 1-888-NYC-WELL. We’re here for you!

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To verify your insurance coverage, please email us using the form below. For all other inquiries, we respond within 48 business hours.

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